Vegan Mushroom Wild Rice Soup

Introduction

Vegan Mushroom Wild Rice Soup is a hearty, creamy, and comforting plant-based dish that is perfect for chilly days. This dairy-free creation is filled with earthy mushrooms, wholesome wild rice, and aromatic herbs to provide a nourishing meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

– 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely diced (100 g)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (10 g)
– 2 medium carrots, diced (120 g)
– 2 celery stalks, chopped (100 g)
– 200 g cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 150 g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme (1 g)
– 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (0.5 g)
– 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (0.5 g)
– 1 tsp salt (6 g)
– 150 g wild rice
– 1.2 L vegetable broth
– 250 ml unsweetened coconut milk
– 2 tbsp (16 g) all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp (30 ml) water
– Juice of 1/2 lemon (15 ml)
– 2 tbsp (8 g) chopped parsley

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Enjoy this deliciously comforting soup, perfect for warming your soul on cold days!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

1. Heat Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté Onions & Garlic

Add 1 small finely diced onion and 3 minced cloves of garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.

3. Add Carrots, Celery, & Mushrooms

Incorporate 2 diced medium carrots, 2 chopped celery stalks, 200 grams of sliced cremini mushrooms, and 150 grams of sliced shiitake mushrooms. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

4. Stir in Herbs & Seasoning

Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Combine Rice and Broth

Stir in 150 grams of wild rice along with 1.2 liters of vegetable broth. Increase the heat, bringing the mixture to a boil.

6. Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes until the wild rice is tender.

7. Prepare Slurry

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.

8. Thicken the Soup

Slowly stir the slurry into the soup to thicken it, ensuring it is well mixed.

9. Add Coconut Milk

Stir in 250 milliliters of unsweetened coconut milk and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

10. Final Touches

Add the juice of 1/2 lemon and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

11. Serve

Serve the soup warm and enjoy your hearty meal.

Notes

Preparation Tips

Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking. Use fresh herbs if possible for enhanced flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat.

Serving Suggestions

This soup can be enjoyed with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. Adjust the type of mushrooms based on availability or preference.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

To freeze, transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For added texture, top with crispy roasted chickpeas or a sprinkle of additional fresh parsley. A squeeze of lemon on top just before serving can enhance the flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 9g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Dietary Fiber: 5g
– Sugars: 3g
– Protein: 7g
– Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Olive oil can be replaced with any vegetable oil or avocado oil.
– For onions, shallots or leeks can be used for a different flavor profile.
– If cremini or shiitake mushrooms are unavailable, any other mushrooms such as button or portobello can be substituted.
– For herbs, fresh thyme and rosemary can be used in place of dried—use three times the amount as they are less concentrated.
– Coconut milk can be swapped with unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream for a different creaminess.
– All-purpose flour can be replaced with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version; just adjust the amount accordingly.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This technique allows flavors to meld and develop while keeping the ingredients tender yet firm.

Simmering

Simmering is a gentle cooking method that involves cooking liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique helps to blend flavors and softens ingredients, making it ideal for soups and stews.

Thickening with a Slurry

A slurry is a mixture of flour and water that is used to thicken soups and sauces. Whisking the slurry into the soup provides a smooth texture without clumping.

Incorporating Coconut Milk

Adding coconut milk towards the end of cooking enriches the soup, providing a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory ingredients.

Adjusting Seasoning

Taste your dish before serving to adjust the seasoning. Adding acidity, such as lemon juice, or a touch more salt can enhance the overall flavor profile of the soup.

FAQ

Can I use other types of rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice like brown rice or basmati, but adjust the cooking time as needed since different rice varieties have different cooking durations.

Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

Yes, you can use almond milk or soy milk, but the soup will not have the same creamy texture. You may also want to add a bit of nut butter for richness.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, potatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the nutrient content and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Can this soup be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

This Vegan Mushroom Wild Rice Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings warmth and comfort on chilly days. With its combination of earthy mushrooms, hearty wild rice, and creamy coconut milk, it’s a wholesome meal that caters to both vegan and non-vegan diets alike. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, this soup can easily become a favorite in your household.

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